UF partners with 'All of Us' seeking 1M people to share medical data

by Shelby Lindsay

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Gainesville, Fla. - WGFL —

The National Institutes of Health’s All of Us is an educational program traveling around the country and on Friday the University of Florida was able to contribute to a nation-wide effort to improve health and accelerate research.

UF Health President Dr. David Nelson said he was 'concerned' about the long term health of future generations.

“This is really the first generation in our history of mankind that there’s predictions that our kids will not outlive their parents.” Nelson said, “it is because some of the major diseases threatening the U.S. with obesity and diabetes.”

UF has partnered with All of Us to change these predictions.

According to NIH “far too many diseases do not have a proven means of prevention, or effective treatment. We must gain better insights into the biological, environmental, and behavioral influences on these diseases to make a difference for the millions of people who suffer from them.”

The All of Us is asking people across the country to take a survey about their background and health. They ask that you provide your medical history and – if possible – a blood sample.

“This is an unprecedented national adventure where we are asking one million people as volunteers to help us understand what keeps people healthy, and how can we best manage illness if it happens and it’s about all of us,” said NIH Director Dr. Francis Collin.

Nelson says the communities involvement is crucial to gain the information researchers need.

“I have two boys and my real goal is that by myself and our community coming together we really have a chance to see the benefits,” Nelson said.

UF Professor Betsy Shenkman said “the big message of why it’s important to go is to really be a part of the next generation of science.”

If you would like to be a part of this study head over to Depot Park on Saturday anytime between 10AM and 4PM.